Galway

<h4>Wolves Return to Ballybane: Mural Unveiled in Community Project</h4>
<p>Ballybane has embraced a howl of creativity with the unveiling of a new mural at Sruthán Mhuirlinne. Officially launched this November, the mural is the centrepiece of a community-led project, aimed at transforming a previously neglected space into a vibrant reflection of local pride.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>The mural, created by <a href="https://xploreapp.io/galway" target="_blank">Galway</a> artist Irene Naughton incorporates themes of biodiversity and folklore. Alongside the striking artwork are two original poems: one by Naughton herself, centred on the mythical 'last wolf of Galway.' and another in Irish by award-winning poet Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh, 'Mac Tíre Mhuirlinne.'</p>
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<h5>Pictured at the launch of the spectacular Last Wolf of Merlin Woods mural and poetry community project, are (Left to right): Pat Foley (Galway City Council); Fergal Cushen (Environmental Awareness Officer); Garda Kenny Boyle (Community Garda); Fr. Martin Glynn; Cllr. Terry O’Flaherty; Irene Naughton, Artist; Donal Lynch, Merlin Neighbourhood Resident’s Association; Edward Conlon (Housing Liasion Officer) and Tom Roddy.</h5>
<h4>Art Driving Environmental Awareness</h4>
<p>Funded through the WERLA Anti-Dumping Initiative, the project is an example of art driving environmental awareness. Fergal Cushen, Environmental Awareness Officer with Galway City Council, commended the collaboration:&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>“This fantastic project was very much a collaborative effort with the local community in Ballybane. We wanted to reflect their sense of identity and pride in their area through the themes of both the mural and the poems. The area was identified by the community as a dumping hotspot – this project has transformed the space, which is in a very prominent position – and really highlights the positive changes which are on-going in Ballybane.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Poetry and Art Take Centre Stage&nbsp;&nbsp;</h4>
<p>At the launch, Naughton recited her poem, while local resident Tom Roddy delivered Ní Ghearbhuigh’s Irish-language piece. The mural itself features both poems on a plaque, alongside intricate depictions of the wolf and local biodiversity, celebrating Ballybane's growing network of wildflower areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
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<h4>Tom Roddy reads poet Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh’s poem, Mac Tíre Mhuirlinne</h4>
<h4>About the Artists&nbsp;&nbsp;</h4>
<p>Irene Naughton, a local artist known for her realistic and street art style, has a history of engaging in community art projects. Her previous work can be seen in Sliabh Rua, part of a similar initiative in 2022. She is currently working on a children’s storybook and will showcase some of her art at the upcoming Christmas exhibition at Kenny’s Bookshop.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh is an internationally acclaimed poet, with accolades including the Michael Hartnett Award and the Lawrence O’Shaughnessy Award. Her work bridges tradition and innovation, reflecting her deep connection to the Irish language and culture.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Community Spirit in Action&nbsp;&nbsp;</h4>
<p>The project, developed in partnership with the Merlin Neighbourhood Residents Association, has given Ballybane residents a renewed sense of pride in their surroundings. The association, which recently received a runner-up accolade at the IPB Pride of Place Awards, worked alongside Galway City Council officials and the artists to ensure the mural represents the community's values and aspirations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
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<h5>Attending the unveiling of the mural and poem on Wednesday at Struthán Mhuirlinne in Ballybane were Isaac and Millicent Adebayo, Ballybane.&nbsp;</h5>
<h4>Looking Ahead&nbsp;&nbsp;</h4>
<p>With the mural serving as a vibrant reminder of Ballybane’s potential, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to visit and experience this testament to art, poetry, and community resilience.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
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<p>For more on the artists, visit:&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>Irene Naughton: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/inaughtonart" target="_blank">Irene Naughton</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh: <a href="https://ailbhenighearbhuigh.com/" target="_blank">Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh</a>&nbsp;</p>


The Last Wolf of Merlin Woods Celebrated In Ballybane

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